Governor Corbett Declares State Of Emergency

Governor Tom Corbett declared a statewide disaster emergency to enable state, county and municipal governments to respond effectively to the impact of Hurricane Irene.

According to a news release, the proclamation "authorizes state agencies to use all available resources and personnel as necessary to cope with this emergency situation."

Corbett issued the disaster proclamation Friday morning after meeting with Glenn Cannon, director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, and other emergency officials at their headquarters in Harrisburg, as stated in the release.

"We are urging all Pennsylvanians to take action now to be prepared," Corbett said in the release.

"We will continue to monitor this changing situation statewide and plan for all possible emergencies. Should the need arise, we will be able to help as quickly and efficiently as possible," he continued.

Residents can find a full list of helpful suggestions on how to plan for an emergency by visiting the state’s preparedness website www.ReadyPA.org or by calling 1-888-9-READY-PA.

According to the release, the state's Emergency Operations Center has been monitoring conditions statewide, as well as communicating with other states and federal officials, to assess conditions and coordinate any response necessary to support Pennsylvania’s counties and municipalities in the affected areas.

According to the latest weather forecasts, the eastern portion of the state will bear the brunt of the storm with heavy rains of up to 10 inches, and strong winds gusting to 60 mph or more. The combination of wind and rain could result in downed trees and utility lines, possibly resulting in extensive power outages and flash flooding, according to the release.

In additon, state emergency officials are in communication with multiple state agencies, including the state departments of Transportation, Health, Public Welfare, General Services, State Police, Pennsylvania National Guard, Turnpike Commission, Public Utility Commission and the American Red Cross, to ensure supplies and personnel are ready if needed.

For a full list of emergency preparedness tips visit the Red Cross website and follow Hurricane Irene's path with the National Weather Service's map.